Laid Off
Back to dashboard

First 24 hours

Move slowly. Don't sign anything you don't understand.

You can read the full checklist on this page. Want a printable copy? Email it to yourself below.

Before you act

A respectful conversation can leave important questions unanswered. The first 24 hours are not about arguing or solving your future. They are about preserving your options, confirming the facts, and avoiding rushed decisions.

Calm is good. Clarity is better.

Read it on this page

  • Do not sign any agreement before you understand it.
  • If you received a severance or release agreement, ask how long you have to review it and consider getting qualified help before signing.

    Reviewing something with lasting consequences is a normal step, not an overreaction.

  • Save copies of all documents you received (separation letter, severance, benefits notice).
  • Confirm your official last day of employment in writing.
  • Confirm the exact date your health benefits end.
  • Ask if there is a deadline to sign severance and what happens if you don't.
  • Ask about PTO payout, final paycheck timing, bonus, commission, and equity.
  • Write down your HR contact's name, email, and phone.
  • Avoid emotional public posting until you have a plan.
  • Create a quick cash snapshot: cash on hand, monthly costs, runway in months.

Want the printable PDF?

We'll email it to you. No spam.

So we can tailor future updates.

Educational planning tool.

FAQ

What should I do in the first 24 hours after a U.S. layoff?

In general: don't sign anything you don't fully understand, save copies of every document you've received, confirm your last day in writing, write down when your benefits end, and note your HR contact's name and email. Take time before responding to any deadlines.

Should I sign my severance agreement right away?

It is generally not advisable to sign anything you don't understand. Severance agreements often contain releases of legal claims and other clauses worth reviewing carefully, ideally with a qualified employment attorney. This site is educational and does not provide legal advice.

Is the 24-hour layoff checklist free?

Yes. You can read the full checklist on the page, and request a printable PDF copy by email. There is no purchase required.

References

First-24-hour prompts in this checklist reference materials published by the U.S. Department of Labor on severance, benefit continuation, and the WARN Act, and by HealthCare.gov on Special Enrollment Periods after loss of job-based coverage. This page is educational and does not give legal, immigration, tax, benefits, insurance, or unemployment-eligibility advice. For your specific situation, consult an employment attorney licensed in your state.

Going deeper from here: prepare questions for HR, start severance prep, walk through the COBRA decision guide, or get ready for filing for unemployment.

On a work visa? Visit the Work Visa Layoff Hub.

Need help going further? Build your full plan.

Educational planning tool. Read the full disclaimer.